Scottish government invests £645k in Methil energy park decommissioning facility

Ten projects across Scotland have been awarded grants totalling £1.84 million in the fourth round of the Scottish government’s Decommissioning Challenge Fund (DCF).

Among the schemes to get funding is phase two of the new decommissioning facility at the energy park, with the funds being used as support for a programme of enabling works to facilitate the development of the £3m facility.

Convenor of Fife Council’s economy, tourism, strategic planning & transportation committee, Councillor Altany Craik said: “This award from the Decommissioning Challenge Fund presents a timely and significant economic boost for the regeneration of Methil and the wider Levenmouth and mid-Fife areas. Alongside full match funding from the Scottish Government’s Vacant and Derelict Land Fund, this will unlock entry into this key growth sector.

“Fife Council will continue to work alongside Scottish Enterprise and the commercial operator, Cesscon Decom Ltd, to maximise local supply chain opportunities associated with the decommissioning activity at Energy Park Fife.”

Energy minister Paul Wheelhouse said: “Support for the decommissioning sector is more important now than it ever has been as we plan our strategic economic recovery from Covid-19.

“Our Energy Strategy recognises that decommissioning offers significant economic opportunities that can help Scottish industry capture global market opportunities through the export of knowledge and experience, and commits to enhancing the skills and capacity in Scotland.

“The DCF is crucial in supporting development in this growing industry and I am delighted with the range of projects funded this year. In addition to helping improve the skills of the Scottish workforce, it will support further growth opportunities for the Scottish supply chain.”